Limiting sports betting to in-person wagering and on-site activation will do nothing to end the black market for sports betting. New York money should stay in New York, not in the pockets of offshore bookies! New Yorkers like myself should not be forced to travel miles to a casino to register before being able to place a bet from our phones or computers. Increasing the number of mobile operators increases competition, and competition is good for consumers and the state of New York.

Bet on New York or I will bet on someone who does! Limiting sports betting to in-person wagering and on-site activation will do nothing to end the black market for sports betting. That means that New York money will continue to flow to offshore bookies instead of staying right here in New York. New Yorkers like myself should not be forced to travel across the state to a casino before being able to place a bet from our phones or computers, especially with New Jersey getting ready to offer mobile betting. Increasing the number of mobile operators increases competition, and competition is good for consumers and the state of New York.

Voting to restrict mobile sports betting would be a wasted opportunity for New York. If New Yorkers are forced to drive across the state to place a bet, the black market will continue to flourish and money that could help New York will continue to line the pockets of offshore bookies. New York needs sports betting legislation that will shut down the black market and increase competition for consumers. Increasing the number of mobile operators increases competition, and competition is good for consumers and the state of New York.

What is the point of legalizing sports betting if New York continues to allow the offshore black market to flourish? New Yorkers are not going to drive across the state to place a bet or register an account if it’s still easier to place a bet with an offshore bookie. Increasing the number of mobile operators and offering mobile activation is the only way to ensure that New York benefits from sports betting. Bet on New York or I will bet on someone who does!